Hong Kong's

LANSON PLACE HOTEL
133, Leighton Road, Causeway Bay
- HONG KONG ISLAND -

Highly sophisticated and bursting with individual style, the Lanson Place Hotel is a dream hotel that offers its guests seclusion from the bustle of city. Winner of Harper's Bazaar StyleAwards 2007 "Boutique Hotel of the Year", this establishment is fashioned on neo-classical lines. A strong and commanding symetrical facade lead way to a chic design interior, combining architectural simplicity with ornate furnishings, reminiscent of a country mansion.

The large windows ensure that this wonderful hotel and its rooms bask in sunlight. Handblown glass chandeliers are just one of the many details that make the Lanson Place a cut above the rest in its category. This hotel is an oasis of exclusivity located Hong Kong's Causeway Bay hotspot.

Walnut Shell Powder

Finely ground Walnut Shells make an extremely stable and effective exfoliant. Walnut Shell Powder can be added to soaps, scrubs, or even fresh exfoliation treatments.

Green Resorts' Development

An overarching ecological perspective drives Knut Willand, a Norwegian native and the developer of Eden Caribe in the Dominican Republic.

Willand’s philosophy is one where nature set the rules. For example, one of the principles is never to cut down an old tree. “The architect has to consider the impact on vegetation before he begins,” explains Willand. “If we have to cut down young trees, we plant new ones. We use only renewable energy: sun, wind and water. We treat all sewerage and black water with the Biodisc treatment system. We recycle the treated water and use it on the gardens. All garbage will be recycled where possible.

“We try as much as possible to use materials that are environmentally friendly. For example using natural stones, and making wooden fences from coconut palm trees that have been blown down by storms and strong winds. All houses are low energy properties, which means they are built with high-quality insulation. All road construction, digging and moving of materials like sand, stones and earth is done by hand, using no machinery, in order to minimise the environmental impact." Property prices start from £67,500.

In Belize, Central America, British company Someplace Else is developing a project covering almost 1,000 acres of sub-tropical rainforest. Currently under construction, Belize Reserve is an eco-resort that incorporates a wildlife reserve and a conservation and research centre. Natural springs and a river ensure water self-sufficiency; prices start from £35,000 for a one-bedroom house.

On the Cape Verde island of Santiago, Sambala Resort is a new eco-project in development where one-third of the land parcel has been designated for the nesting of indigenous turtles, allowing them to return freely to nest in the safety of a biological corridor. Social responsibility is part of the ethos too. Sambala has funded the construction of a school on the island, and employs 450 local people

Sustainable features of the resort include all properties are built using recycled steel from American cars such as Cadillacs. a biological RO desalination plant has been commissioned and is designed to recycle over 80 per cent of the waste water which can be used for irrigation purposes, and furniture packs are compiled from sustainable FSC certified reclaimed teak from colonial hospitals in India and other renewable materials.

ECO TEA !

Zip Heaters is delighted to be able to offer one lucky winner the opportunity to own a sophisticated HydroTap. Delivering instant freshly filtered boiling and chilled water from the same unit at the touch of a button.

Conventional methods of boiling drinking water, such as the overfilled kettle, often result in surplus water being discarded and unnecessary energy being used to heat the excess. With filtered boiling water available instantly from the Zip HydroTap at the touch of a button, the user can dispense the exact amount required each time.

Taurumi

TAURUMI - Tradition of Polynesia
For Polynesians, ever since ancient times, massage has always been part and parcel of their traditional medicine, philosophy of life, ancestral practices and customs.
In their vernacular, they call it TAURUMI.

TAURUMI - in the Polynesian tradition, is to embrace the whole individual in a holistic expression of spirituality, energy, spoken word and especially touch

TAURUMI - is to touch or massage, to offer the possibility of love, of growth and of opening oneself up to all the facets of life. And so since birth, their baby ma’ohi are frequently massaged and these long gentle massages allow them to become aware of their own bodies. The head is shaped, arms and legs lengthened and the scalp is enriched with monoï oil. The child acquires a psychological and physical equilibrium – a prelude to life’s adventure.

TAURUMI - is all about prevention. It helps maintain good health and acts as a therapeutic complement…all life long.

TAURUMI - Polynesians attach a great importance to body odors – they apply themselves with monoï and decorate themselves with garlands and sweet-smelling flowers. In former days their women folk would spend a long time combing their hair and dressing it with tamanu oil as well as nourishing and purifying it with sandalwood infused monoï.

TAURUMI - today is the respect of a massage tradition jealously guarded by each family: only its members know how to work on the invisible lines that criss-cross the body and allow the free flow of energy.

Why not let yourself be carried away by the magic of TAURUMI ?

MOSQUITO BEACH HOTEL - MEXICO -

Rooms : 33, Comfort and luxury, Original design, Private beach club, Relaxing ocean setting, Mediterreanean fusion cooking, Swimming pool.

A unique combination of comfort and good music in an exclusive and relaxing ocean setting. Situated facing the sea, the Mosquito Beach Hotel even has a private beach club, Maramao Beach. The establishment has been thoughtfully designed, with local and Italian materials and features special details that make the ideal refuge for those who long for comfort, luxury and good climate. Inventive and original design as well as eclectic and elegant décor come together in a wonderful place of singular beauty.

The 33 rooms of the Mosquito Beach boast elegant italian furniture, a romantic feel with dark brown walls, modern design and minimalist bathroom fixtures, offering a comfortable place for nights of pleasure.

The white sand and ocean turquoise are the beautiful backdrop for the restaurant, located just in front of the sea, which delights with delicious fusion cooking and Mediterranean flavours. Enjoy the morning sea-breeze having breakfast on a comfortable deckchair, or an exquisite evening dinner under the moonlight. There's also a long list of natural tropical juices. Finally, the installations include a refreshing swimming pool and garden.

MOSQUITO BEACH HOTEL
s/n, Calle Ocho y Zona Federal Marítima -
77710 PLAYA DEL CARMEN - Mexico -

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy, as the name suggests uses the sense of smell for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapy essential oils derived from aromatic plants are used to ease ailments such as aches and pains and other severe health problems. The oils are found in different parts of the plant such as the flowers, twigs, leaves and bark or in the rind of fruit. Aromatherapy oils are the concentrated essences that seek to heal the body and mind. Find out how this practice has its roots in ancient times. Read up on essential oils that lend their healing touch to aid overall well being. There is a cornucopia of aromatherapy products lining the shelves of stores that heal and beautify your body. Aromatherapy candles are popularly used in homes today.

History of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils or essential oils. Essential oils are in fact the pure 'essence' of a plant. They have been found to provide both psychological and physical benefits when used correctly and safely. There are more than 90 varieties of essential oils. Aromatherapy is a method of natural healing that dates back 6000 years. The Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Indians, Persians and ancient Egyptians used aromatherapy oils. The Chinese and the Egyptians were the first to understand its power.

The Chinese used aromatic plants by burning them to create harmony and balance. According to ancient Egyptian scriptures, Imhotep -the Egyptian god of medicine and healing recommended fragrant oils for bathing, massaging and embalming the dead. Egyptians invented a rudimentary distillation machine that allowed for the crude extraction of cedarwood oil. Hippocrates, commonly called the 'father of medicine' practiced fumigations for both aromatic and medicinal benefits. He used aromatherapy baths and scented massage and utilized aromatic fumigation to rid Athens of the plague.

These oils were known not just for their aroma but their anti-inflammatory properties and capacity to heal wounds. In the 16th century and 17th century, essential oils were distilled and sold at apothecaries and perfuming became a big industry. Women had special bottles created by their jewelers to hold their treasured perfume. The 19th century saw the isolation of the major constituents of essential oils. It was in 1928 that aromatherapy in its present form gained prominence. The French Rene Maurice Gattefosse coined the term aromatherapy for the therapeutic use of essential oils. He noticed that lavender oil helped in healing his burnt hand without leaving any scars. With the growing resurgence to harness the power of natural products, essential aromatherapy oils are being used for therapeutic, cosmetic and aromatic benefit.

Aromatherapy candles

Candles have a soothing effect that helps in relaxing the body and calming the mind. Normally aromatherapy candles have only 2 ingredients: vegetable oil and pure essential oils and they are made with a 100% cotton wick to ensure a smoke and pollution free burn. Common examples for aromatherapy candle are the 'citronella' candles, which are used during the summer to keep mosquitoes away. Citronella essential oil is the ingredient in the candles that provides this benefit.

Kiwi Salt Scrub

Ingredients

1/2 cup Dead Sea Salt, Fine

1 Teaspoon Parsley Powder

1/2 Teaspoon Dried Kiwi Fruit Seeds

1 Tablespoon Organic Virgin Coconut Cream Oil

1 Tablespoon Kiwi Seed Oil

2 Tablespoons High Oleic Sunflower Oil1/

8 Teaspoon Grapefruit Seed Extract1/

8 Teaspoon Kiwi Fragrance Oil (optional)

Instructions

Gently warm the Organic Virgin Coconut Cream Oil until fully melted. Add 1 tablespoon of the melted oil to a small mixing bowl followed by the High Oleic Sunflower and Kiwi Seed Oils. Next, mix in 1/8 teaspoon of Grapefruit Seed Extract. Mix the oils together than add 1/2 cup of Fine Dead Sea Salt, 1/2 teaspoon of Kiwi Fruit Seeds, and 1 teaspoon of Parsley Powder. Stir the mixture well, making sure to disperse the Parlsey Powder completely. The scrub will have a nice subtle coconut aroma thanks to the Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. If you prefer a more potent aroma, add 1/8 teaspoon of Kiwi Fragrance Oil.

LUXURY HOTEL FUNDU LAGOON

FUNDU LAGOON
Wambaa, Mkoani - 3945 PEMBA ISLAND -
Tanzania

Accessible only by boat, Fundu Lagoon is a remote resort nestled on the nearly unspoilt, tropical isle of Pemba, in Tanzania. Immersed in beautiful tropical settings, this resort’s natural design integrates perfectly into the gorgeous scenery that surrounds it. Stylish and totally relaxed, Fundu Lagoon proposes a unique way to experience a leisurely holiday off the East African coastline in an isolated and tranquil ambiance.

Wooden walkways and sandy paths lead up to the sixteen makuti thatched roofed tented rooms. Each suite bears a natural décor, which incorporates traditional African colours and elements, creating uniquely relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. The resort itself boasts modern facilities which are certain to make your stay a fun and enjoyable experience. Among these, you will find an open-sided restaurant and three bars, as well as a television and game room. You’ll be entranced by the beautiful infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean with poolside spa treatments and beauty treatments. “Dive 7/10” is a fully equipped diving centre, with trips to nearby Misali Island for snorkelling.

Just north of Zanzibar, you’ll find exotic Pemba Island. The little known tropical paradise is an ideal place to disconnect from every day stress and routines and practice an array of outdoor activities, such as boating and snorkelling. A stay at Fundu Lagoon gives you access to spectacular virgin beaches and the turquoise waters of the West Indian Ocean. Credit Cards and travellers cheques are accepted with the following additional surcharges on the amount payable: Credit cards 7.5% - Travellers cheques 5%

FASHION : Call of the Wild !

Posh.08.

Dolce & Gabbana shirt, $695, and pants, $1,295, available at Dolce & Gabbana boutiques nationwide. Subversive Jewelry by Justin Giunta multistrand necklace, $1,600, subversivejewelry.com. Oscar de la Renta sandals, $755, Oscar de la Renta boutiques nationwide.













Elegant.08

Diane von Furstenberg dress, $495, DVF boutique, NYC, 646-486-4800. Monies at Drozak multistrand necklace, $350, Mariposa Designs, Sarasota Florida, 941-366-9510. R.J. Graziano bangles, $45-$95, 212-685-1248 for more information. Oscar de la Renta sandals, $765, Neiman Marcus stores nationwide.

















Sensual.08.

Bottega Veneta shirt, $1,360, bra, $450, shorts, $930, and sandals, $1,100, available at Bottega Veneta boutiques nationwide. Stephen Dweck multistrand choker, $2,580, and long beaded necklace, $1,095, available at Bergdorf Goodman, NYC, 212-872-8651. Subversive Jewelry by Justin Giunta beaded necklace, $1,095, subversivejewelry.com. Pono by Joan Goodman bangles, $45-$400, 866-336-PONO. Lisa Stewart beaded bracelets, $40 each, lisastewartonline.com.

















Wild.08.

(Clockwise, from top left) Tashkent by Cheyenne wrap boot, $460, funkylala.com. Sergio Rossi pump, $655, available at Sergio Rossi, NYC, 212-956-3303. Bally wedge, $495, available at Bally, NYC, 212-751-9082. Cesare Paciotti leopard-print boot, $705, available at Cesare Paciotti, NYC, 212-452-1222.

CUBAN CUISINE

The Cuban cuisine had the same genesis that culture: it has been integrated by contributions of Spain and other regions. The poor table was conformed, partly, by the Canaries. They left the chickpeas that the islanders ate with corn, and Mojo, a very important dressing for most of Cuban plates where the viands are included.

From Africa came the forced habit of the slaves of eating corn flour, tender or dry, and in tamale. Even the Chinese brought, more than 150 years ago, their culinary ideas. That is why we also have the fried rice, plate combined with multiple meats and vegetables.

In favour of the Cuban culinary art is necessary to admit the creativity of the cookers. A traveller of the XIX century, the North American Luisa Mathilde Woodruff, wrote that she saw in Cuba already known plates, and she found out, when she tasted them, that those plates were different in a way. Due to that capacity the Cuban cuisine stands out in the revenues that the country receives from tourism.

A spirit of renovation and variety is perceived in the Cuban recipes. The ability to combine traditional plates with new tastes has propitiated the invention of new plates.

BLACK BEANS RICE CUBAN STYLE

1 1/2 c. black beans4 slices bacon1/2 clove garlic, crushed1 onion, chopped1 tsp. chili powderSaltCayenne pepper2 c. boiled rice

Wash beans; cover with 5 cups water and soak overnight. Drain water off beans. Cover beans with fresh water and boil gently until tender, drain. Add bacon, garlic and onion. Season with chili powder, salt and cayenne to taste.

Add enough water to cover beans and simmer slowly until it makes thick sauce. Pour over cooked warm rice.

FRENCH LATINO WHISPER

France.2008.

Paris

La Peña (3 Passage de la Petite Boucherie; visit lapena.fr). Hidden in a street right off Boulevard St. Germain, La Peña is still the club for after-hours salsa dancing. The club stays open until 6 a.m. on the weekends.

The first all-reggaeton parties at Théoz Bar (26 Rue de la Parcheminerie), a cosy club located in the Latin Quarter, started two summers ago. Since then, DJ Daniel el Boricua, who was born in Paris to Puerto Rican and Chilean parents, and DJ Nelson, a Colombia native who's lived in France for most of his life, have spun a mix of reggaeton and salsa dura (from the '60s and '70s) every weekend.

The Parisians love Brazilian music too. The trendy hot spot Favela Chic (18 Rue du Fbg. du Temple; visit favelachic.com), a bar and restaurant where Parisian hipsters and Brazilian expats devour feijoada and mango caipirinhas on the long picnic tables. Around 1 a.m., a batucada showed up for an improptu jam session.

The Paris Danse En Seines group (visit tango-argentin .net/paris-danses-en-seine.php) offer salsa and tango on the Seine river at the Quai Saint Bernard; the salsa runs on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 7:30 p.m. to midnight, and tango runs every day from 7:30 p.m. to midnight (free classes of each are offered for the first hour).

Lyon

For the past three years in June, the city has hosted the Y Salsa Festival (y-salsa.com), featuring the world's best. You can enjoy white or red sangria at Café Sevilla (7 Rue Ste. Catherine), at left, a bar and restaurant where the walls are full of Spanish team soccer flags. For salsa and reggaeton, visit the Casa Latina dance club (2 Place des Terreaux; visit casalatina .monsite.wanadoo.fr).

Bordeaux

These last 10 years offered to the Bordeaux clubbers a special place to relax & enjoy the Spirit of the Son Cubano. La Calle 8 located at the heart of the old Town, 24 r Piliers de Tutelle, is opened all week long. This Café Cubano is a reference for that city thanks to the Latino Spirit that belongs to its history. Enjoy a Mulata Cocktail at the Bar and let the different DJ’s offering you a great night. So Gorgeous.


Buddha1333.

TRIBE TRENDS

Jill Stuart


















Gianfranco Ferré


















Proenza Schouler


















Behnaz Sarafpour

MONOÏ TREASURE

NARS Monoï Body Glow II Created by macerating Tahitian gardenias in coconut extract, this multi-purpose oil can be used as an after-sun skin moisturizer or softening massage oil—depending on the occasion. Price: $59 for 100ml

Available at www.narscosmetics.com

Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Moisture MeltSlather on this frangipani-scented oil from head to toe. Its rich combination of monoi and coconut oils works equally well as a hair and scalp conditioner, cuticle treatment, skin softener—and sexy perfume.Price: $48 for 100ml

Available at www.nordstrom.com

HOME : From Concept to Reality

Two words: beautiful and useful. This tome from British design star Kelly Hoppen is a step-by-step walk through several of her most sumptuously stunning projects. Hoppen shares all her secrets, including sketches and floor plans, furniture choices, and fabric samples. The whole thing is a valuable peek into the making of Hoppen’s luxe aesthetic.

Published by Little, Brown & Company; available from Barnes & Noble; 191 pages.

PURE KITCHEN

CHRISTINE PITTEL: This is a big space in a new house, yet the details suggest an old-fashioned kitchen. What look were you going for?

DESIGNER CAROLINE DECESARE: You know that Diane Keaton, Jack Nicholson movie, Something's Gotta Give? The kitchen in that movie was our starting point—a clean white traditional kitchen with subway tiles and glass-fronted cabinets, updated with stainless-steel appliances. We even did the same kind of brackets under the upper cabinets.

DESIGNER BERKLEY VALLONE: The client wanted big, clean work surfaces. Originally, we did soapstone countertops like they had in the movie, but we replaced them with honed black granite after a year, because of the maintenance. Soapstone has to be oiled, and when you oil it, some areas absorb more and get darker. Others stay lighter. It's very inconsistent, and that bothers some people. Indian Premium black granite gives a similar look, with less maintenance. We sealed it with a color-enhancing sealer.
Why did you do two separate islands?

VALLONE: Originally there was only one, as the wife wanted. But it was so big that you couldn't even reach the center.

DECESARE: You could have parked a car on it. So we redid it. Now husband and wife each have their own sink and their own work space. Both sinks are big, with garbage disposals, trash on one side and a dishwasher on the other. The days of those little round bar sinks on an island are over—they're too dysfunctional.

VALLONE: We did two dishwashers and two refrigerators, side by side, each with the refrigerator on top and freezer drawers below. There's also a beverage refrigerator, under the counter where the glasses are kept.
How come you didn't match the sinks and faucets on the islands?

DECESARE: The husband is Italian and he wanted a stainless-steel single-compartment sink that could handle big pasta pots. We wanted the farmhouse look. He went online and found Franke's stainless-steel farmhouse sink. He's very particular about his space. Which is why they have separate sinks, because she might leave a stray sippy cup around.

VALLONE: The double islands work really well when you're having a party. The inner one becomes the prep area and the outer one becomes a buffet. People can circulate all around the food.
Is that the dining room, through the archway?

VALLONE: The breakfast room, and it gets used all the time. It has killer light, with French doors on either side and then that big window behind the table. The table is new but made to look old. Super-casual black wicker chairs, with an indoor/outdoor fabric on the seats, so they can take the covers off and wash them. Important, with four young children. And then a banquette in back, with a leather seat they can wipe down.

DECESARE: With a banquette, it's essential to be able to slide in and out, and that's easier if it's covered in leather instead of fabric. The kids love the sliding, and you can fit a bunch of little bums back there.

VALLONE: With the two French doors to the barbecue and the pool, there's a lot of traffic here, and we wanted the table to be out of the way. With a banquette, you can push the table closer to the wall.
What's on the floor?

VALLONE: Seven-inch-wide walnut planks. A wider plank feels older, more casual. It's a little country, just like the coffered ceiling, which we made with drywall, stock moldings, and beadboard. Then the industrial light fixtures and the stainless-steel appliances add a modern edge.

KITCHEN BY BERKLEY VALLONE AND CAROLINE DECESARE
INTERVIEW BY CHRISTINE PITTEL
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOE SCHMELZER
PRODUCED BY SAMANTHA EMMERLING

A-Mei MAC Collection

MAC Cosmetics' latest collaboration brings major Asian pop star A-Mei into the international spotlight with a color collection inspired by her native Puyuma tribe in Taiwan. The line's rich palette and distinct cultural feel are a tribute both to A-Mei's Austronesian features (which means she has genetic ties in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia) and this spring's decidedly global ethnic influences.

Each product comes in a bold hue and a more subdued neutral: Eye shadows are electric blue or delicate beige, and on lips, the deep red "Ruby Woo" contrasts the flesh-colored "Siss." Meanwhile, the packaging's stitch motif was inspired by her tribe's traditional costumes. The line will be available in select MAC boutiques throughout the world—backup dancers and screaming fans not included.

POSH HOTEL MALDIVES

THE BEACH HOUSE AT MANAFARU
Manafaru Island - No HAA ALIFU ATOLL -
Maldives

OPENED FEBRUARY 1ST 2008

Sleek, contemporary and sexy, the Beach House at Manafaru Maldives offers unparalleled boutique luxury and serenity. Located on the Haa Alifu Atoll in the northern Maldives and surrounded by coral reef lagoons, the property boasts 68 individual bungalows each with their own personal butler to attend to guest's every need as well as a sumptuous private pool and outdoor bathroom and sala. All villas feature every modern technological convenience, whilst traditional Maldivian style is celebrated in architectural details from the open-air design to the thatched roofing.

Leisurely spread throughout the island's lush vegetation, the villas are all generously sized and elegantly decorated. Soft silhouettes, exhilarating surroundings and simple understated elegance capture the ambience. Outdoor bathrooms feature low lying oversized bathtubs, open air rain showers and a sun deck with cozy loungers.Gourmet meals made from the freshest ingredients (try the freshly-caught local seafood) and Maldivian specialities are offered in the three restaurants, each with its own distinct style, amid stunning views of the ocean. The Beach House also has portable cooking stations allowing you to have food prepared in your own villa by one of the chefs, creating a personalised dining experience.

There's also a wide selection of bars and lounges, two by the pool and the stunning 'Salt Water' extending over the lagoon. The Spa is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and features 10 treatment rooms with outdoor courtyards, rain showers and floral baths, offering absolute privacy. The resort has trained therapists and Medical professionals on hand to provide you with a variety of pampering Thai, Balinese and Swedish treatments. A professional nutritionist and Spa Cuisine expert also helps to cleanse toxins and achieve purification.

Set in a privileged location within the unspoiled beauty of one of the country’s most northern atolls, the 14-hectare resort offers a level of serenity unsurpassed in the Maldives. Reassuringly secluded, all guests will be met by a representative and transported with a domestic flight to Hanimadhoo domestic airport, which is 45 minutes from Male international airport and then guests will be met with another representative and taken by 45 minute speed boat to The Beach House at Manafaru Maldives.

CACAO

The Maya believed that the kakaw (cacao) was discovered by the gods in a mountain that also contained other delectable foods to be used by the Maya. According to Maya mythology, the Plume Serpent gave cacao to the Maya after humans were created from maize by divine grandmother goddess Xmucane.

There are several mixtures of cacao described in ancient texts, for ceremonial, medicinal uses as well as culinary purposes. Some mixtures included maize, chili, vanilla (Vanilla planifolia), peanut butter and honey. The first Europeans to encounter cacao were Christopher Colombus and his crew in 1502, when they captured a canoe at Guanaja that contained a quantity of mysterious-looking “almonds,”. The first real European knowledge about chocolate came in the form of a beverage which was first introduced to the Spanish at their meeting with Montezuma in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan in 1519.

Cacao had immense symbolic value. It was a rare luxury and an import that could not be grown within the boundaries of the Aztec Empire. There are no detailed descriptions of how cacao solids were prepared, but there are a number of allusions to the fact that it was eaten in some form. Cacao was most commonly drunk as xocolat ("bitter water", the origin of the word chocolate) and was the beverage of warriors and nobles. It was considered a potent intoxicant and something that was drunk with great solemnity and gravity which was described as something "not drunk unthinkingly" by the Spanish chronicler Sahagún.

Chocolate could be prepared in a huge variety of ways and most of them involved mixing hot or tepid water with toasted and ground cacao beans, maize and any number of flavorers such as chile, honey, vanilla and a wide variety of spices. The ingredients were mixed and beaten with a beating stick or aerated by pouring the chocolate from one vessel to another. If the cacao was of high quality, this produced a rich head of foam.

Hot Chili Chocolate

* 1 2/3 cups milk
* 1/2 vanilla bean
* red 1/8 tsp chili powder.
* 1 cinnamon stick
* 30/50 g bittersweet chocolate

Split red chili pepper and remove the seeds. Also split the vanilla bean, lengthwise. In a saucepan, heat milk to simmering with vanilla bean, chili pepper and broken up cinnamon stick. Continue to simmer for a minute or two. Grate chocolate, and whisk into the hot spiced milk until melted. Remove mixture from heat and let sit for 10 minutes, to steep. Strain, and heat through again if necessary. Serve hot. Serves 2.

7th ANNUAL BALI FASHION WEEK

Fashion met art at the 7TH Annual Bali Fashion Week, November 2007.

Bali is well known for its beautiful beaches, incredible vistas, glorious sun sets, ideal location for high level conventions and summits but now also for its creative fashion event due to the continuous success of Bali Fashion Week. BFW is a unique fashion event that fuses fashion, art, culture into a fun-filled and inspiring festival that is developing into a significant world fashion event. The 7th edition of BFW opened on Nov 22, 2007 under the theme of “Fashion Meets Art”.

This four day annual event rolls fashion, art and culture into one creating an “An Arena for Excellence”.

“Besides the remarkable legacy of unique culture, friendly people and most incredible panorama, Bali is the concrete example of our efforts to blend a promotion of tourism, fashion trade and investment (TTI). With a wide support of the government and numerous private local and international enterprises and involvement of the fashion community of Indonesia, this action-packed four-day event included trade exhibition, seminars, open dialogue with designers, Going Green Handbag Design competition, fashion model award, three evening fashion shows, which built to a crescendo with the Mardi Gras, fashion carnival – FashiONtheStreet - on the last evening. On display were casual wear, resort wear, fancy party-wear of embroidery, beading and laces, textiles, knits, batik and fashion accessories such as handmade fashion jewelry, scarves, boots, shoes, zippers, as well as CAD/CAM systems for aiding apparel design and production.

A series of seminars were conducted in parallel to the exhibition, the topics of which ranged from fashion & colour trends, design technology, marketing and business skills and environmental issues. The three evening fashion shows were held at an amphitheatre with the beach & sea as backdrop. Three cargo containers provided the stage setting with bold messages - “From Bali to Paris”, “From Bali to New York”, and “From Bali to the World” - plastered on the sides. Models sashayed no less than 25 collections by 24 designers down the catwalk from traditional to modern day casual wear, leisure wear, eveningwear, children’s wear and futuristic cyber-wear.

The creative thinking atmosphere of Bali nurtured a new breed of fashion designers comprised of local Balinese and expatriates from four corners of the world who have decided to make Bali their home. Bali is home to a large expatriate community, many of them are involved in the fashion industry. Their collections showed free-thinking design expressions inspired by the resort lifestyle of Bali, and new-age electronic cyber characters.

The collection designed by children for children was indeed a charmer on the catwalk. At the carnival, 20 groups, some on horse-drawn chariots, some in open top cars, and others on foot, each with their own themes paraded through town that took more than one hour and ended on the beautiful Kuta Beach, against the backdrop of the glorious Pacific sunset, bringing BFW to a grand finale. Environmental protection is an ongoing concern of the residents of this pristine island. Several carnival costumes were statements on protection of nature, stop air pollution, promote culture and enjoy nature.

Some portrayed as people in bandages and face masks to filter the polluted air emitted from the sick earth. The winning designs of the Going Green Handbag Design competition went to designs that used recycled computer chips, newspaper and waste paper. Bali is awarded the most favoured island in the world. The idyllic setting and dynamic blend of eastern and western cultures provided Bali an ideal platform for fusion, transforming and forward-looking fashion as well as designs that respond to tropical weather, leisure lifestyle connected by the rich culture.

Owing to this good mix of local and foreign cultures and an atmosphere that encourages creative thinking, Bali has become a breeding ground for fashion creativity. The cross cultural taste in women’s fashion and the popularity of spa and resort lifestyle today supports Bali Fashion Week as an ideal place to congregate, express & present such fashion ideas by local and international designers.